THE football community has come together to pay tribute to a "cheeky Essex chappy" killed in a fatal crash.

Reis Farley-Hearn, 28, was travelling along Dunmow Road in Thaxted when the white Mercedes van he was driving was involved in a collision with a black Volkswagen.

All three emergency services were called out to the crash but despite the best efforts of paramedics, Mr Farley-Hearn was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Volkswagen was taken to hospital with serious injuries, but remains in a stable condition.

Mr Farley-Hearn was a popular figure in the district's footballing community, having featured for both Halstead Town and Braintree Town.

He has also featured for Witham Town and was currently leading the line for White Notley FC.

Halstead Town has joined many clubs in paying tribute to its former player and hailed his impressive record during his time at the Rosemary Lane ground.

A statement put out by the club read: "Everyone at Halstead Town Football Club is shocked and saddened to hear the tragic news of the death of our former player, Reis Farley-Hearn in a motoring accident.

"It may seem irrelevant to mention his playing record at this sad time but, nevertheless, his 41 goals in 94 appearances will stand as a lasting memorial to his massive contribution to this club.

"Our thoughts go out to his family and friends."

A minute's silence was held in all Border League fixtures over the weekend as a mark of respect towards Mr Farley-Hearn, and White Notley's game against Kelvedon was postponed.

Witham Town also held a minute's silence ahead of their match against Coggeshall.

Chairman Mark Nicholls added: "We did try to get the game called off but it was too short notice. Knowing Reis, he would have wanted the game to go ahead.

"We are all deeply shocked by what has happened.

"He was a typical cheeky Essex chappy and a lovely bloke. The response on Twitter and messages by all the football clubs around here show how popular he was."

Essex Police is continuing to investigate the fatal crash, which happened some time around 6.05pm on Wednesday, December 19.

No arrests have been made but officers are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01245 240590 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk.